When a team, or political party, does not do well they will sometimes choose a new leader hoping that will help them to do better. Of course, it is not always the leader’s fault if a team does not do well. Let us hear what Paul said about Israel’s leaders.
“Paul and his companions” had been sent out by their Church to do missions work. (Acts 13:2-3.) They “arrived in Antioch … and on the Sabbath they went into the Synagogue …” (verse 14.) After the Scriptures were read, the officials asked these visitors to “speak to the people … a message of encouragement.” (verse 15.)
Paul began by telling them how God had chosen their Jewish ancestors, and had made them grow into a great nation while they had been slaves in Egypt. Then, “with mighty power brought them out” of Egypt … and gave Canaan “to His people as their inheritance.” (verses 17-20.)
Before Paul goes on with his message, I want to ask you, “Is this the God you know and trust?” A God who, by His great power, has set you free from evil bondage, for you to love and serve Him. Many people are clearly not set free from the power and control of the Evil One.
Watch out for those who live in disobedience to God’s Word: They may often say prayers – even praying to people who are dead and gone, instead of to the living God alone. (Exodus 20:3. Luke 4:8.) They may claim to be worshipping God - yet in disobedience to His Word some use images, and pictures in their so-called worship! (Exodus 20:4-6. Deuteronomy 4:14-16.) They may even be heard to take God’s name in vain quite freely, and not seem to care if they tell lies, or steal, or covet! (Exodus 20:7-17. 1stJohn 2:1-6.) It is very obvious that such people do not know and trust the God who delivers His people from evil by His great power. (Matthew 6:9-13. 1stJohn 3:7-10.)
Paul reminded his audience how God had then given to His people the leaders and kings of His choice. Of course, none of them had been perfect. The people needed a much greater person to save and keep them. (Galatians 4:4-5.)
Paul then told them about God’s final choice: “God has brought to Israel the Saviour Jesus, as He promised.” (verse 23.) But the Jews in Jerusalem refused to trust Jesus when He came among them. (John 1:11-12. Matthew 21:33-44.) They had not understood the words of the prophets, written in the Scriptures, about this great Saviour and King. (verse 27. Luke 24:44-49. Acts 10:42-43.)
Will you believe in God’s final choice - the unfailing and unchanging Priest and Leader for mankind, the LORD JESUS CHRIST? (Hebrews 1:1-3. 7:23-28. 13:8.) If you trust Jesus to save you, you will want to love and serve Him, and you will delight to keep the commands of His Word, the Holy Bible. (John 14:15.)
Read Acts chapter 13, verses 13-27.
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